200 YEARS - FAITH IN THE FUTURE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION IN AUSTRALIA

Almighty and all-loving God,

with gratitude for the endeavours of Catholic education in the past,

with confidence in our Catholic pre-schools, schools and universities today,

and with faith in their continuing contribution in the future, 

we celebrate 200 years of Catholic education in this Great South Land.

As our Heavenly Father, 

we thank you for your providential care for your children in this land

in inspiring priests, religious and lay people

to found and staff our schools in ages past.

Through them the Good News of your Son was brought to the young

even in colonial times - and ever since. 

As Christ the Teacher,

you grace the staff and leaders of Catholic education today.

As they build on the achievements of their predecessors

direct them in their present efforts

to ensure that every young Australian has the opportunity 

for an excellent education and formation in faith.

As our Inspiring Spirit,

you lead us into the future.

In the century ahead grant those teaching and 

learning in our schools,

those planning and leading,

and the families and community that entrust

their young people to us,

a love of learning and a willingness to be the 

face of Christ in the world of tomorrow.

Pour out your abundant blessings upon all involved in 

the ministry of Catholic education. Amen.

Our Lady of the Southern Cross - pray for us.

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Patron of Catholic

Education in Australia - pray for us.